SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19
Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a; Psalm 71; Luke 1:5-25
Moments of wonder and awe often prompt reflective thoughts, motivating us into a new path or discovery. They deliver messages that compel us to take pause, saying: See me, hear me, and listen to what I say. Today's first reading is one such example of wonder and awe. In the book of Judges, Manoah's wife looks at the angel and heeds its words; she receives the angel’s message with faith and reverence and carries it to her husband. Like Manoah, when we take time to stop, to see, to hear and listen to what the Lord may be saying, blessings abound.
Let us stop, see others as gifts, and cherish them for who they are.
Let us allow the blessings found in worship to fill our hearts.
Let us listen to the prayers, struggles and needs of others.
Let us practice empathy and compassion.
Emily Barkhurst
Digital Media Project Coordinator
Catholic Health Association
Pause
How can we encourage others to find joy, peace and awe in the days, moments and people that are gifted to us by the Lord's love?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.